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University of South Australia (UNISA)

Adelaide , South Australia ,Australia

Master of Design (Interior Architecture)

With a focus on design research, theory and practice, this degree will prepare you for a career as an interior architect or interior designer. It will also provide you with an advanced understanding of the innovative, changing world of design.

A major focus of this degree is on design research, and you will complete an individual research-based project where you will be required to critically review, analyse, identify and propose solutions to complex design challenges. Through our industry connections, you will be given the opportunity to work on creative projects, developing skills in writing project proposals and presenting information. A focus on practical, hands-on learning also means you will not only gain the skills and knowledge needed to design stimulating, sustainable and visually appealing interiors, but also the confidence to embark in real-world projects. You will also complete an industry placement as part of your studies.By studying the Master of Design (Interior Architecture) you will develop an advanced and comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of designing and maintaining interior environments that are environmentally responsive and socially adaptable. You will also graduate with a sound knowledge of research methods.
During your first year you will complete a number of core design courses, as well as some courses that focus specifically on interior architecture. During your second year you will develop research skills when you complete a number of research-focused courses. This component of your study provides scope for research related to complex individual design projects.

Campus Information

Adelaide- City West

On the edge of Adelaide’s central business district, City West houses studies in business, law, art, architecture, design, Indigenous cultures and Australian society.

Intakes

  • Feb
  • July

Application Processing Time in Days: 14

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

This master's degree consistently records high graduate employment rates. You could find work in architectural practices, interior design practices, building companies, other organisations supplying the design and building industry, such as corporate furniture suppliers and architectural practices, or public relations and marketing organisations. Careers to consider:

  • interior designer: design, implement and refurbish interior spaces  
  • design consultant: help clients to best utilise living spaces by advising on how to arrange lighting, furniture, and other fixtures
  • event designer: oversee and direct the overall look and visual appeal of an event
  • furniture designer: develop design concepts, experiment with different materials, liaise with clients and build sample models for either mass produced furniture prototypes or one-off exclusive pieces.

PSW Opportunity

Bachelor Degree or Masters by Coursework Degree - 2 years - 3 years (Adelaide)

Masters by Research - 3 years - 4 years (Adelaide)

PhD qualification - 4 years - 5 years (Adelaide)

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

  • Successful completion of a Bachelor degree or Graduate Diploma from a recognised higher education institution, or equivalent, in a related discipline. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.
  • Applicants who have completed the Graduate Diploma in Design from the University of South Australia are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study, and are not required to submit a portfolio of work and statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed a Master of Architecture are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed a Bachelor (Honours) degree in a related discipline are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed the four year Bachelor of Interior Architecture from the University of South Australia are eligible to enter the program with 0.5 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1.5 years of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.